The scenic landscapes of the North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains is ever-changing and simply beautiful. Where blue mist hovers over the mountain tops and the evenings are ushered to a close by sky hues of pinks and purples. The trees put the “blue” in Blue Ridge, from the isoprene released in the atmosphere, thereby contributing to the blue haze distinctive color.

The Blue Ridge is home to impressive gorges, canyons, lakes and waterfalls, all of which attract tourism for recreational activities year around. Summer presents the opportunity to get on the rivers, ride the rapids and experience a zipline cable ride across the hills. The fall season brings the color change of the leaves, that fills up the hiking trails with photographer enthusiasts, while the winter brings the ski resorts alive and jumping.

Don’t worry, if you are not interested in rock climbing or adventurous activity, there is plenty to do and see for those who just want to experience the natural beauty and serenity of leisurely admiration of the majestic surroundings. There are hundreds of trails to explore and its easy to stumble across hidden nature treasures, like waterfalls, rock ponds, old log cabins nestled along the way. Stay with me – I will share a few treasures I met.

Meet our friends Kent & Andrea Powell, missionaries of Mozambique Africa, braving the trail and enjoying the views with us. (everyone wanted our walking sticks) FYI You will hear more about their amazing work for God in Africa later in a special blog, but for now back on the trail.

The leaf season got rushed a little due to a rainy summer and recent snow, but I managed to get a few shots, you might enjoy.

There is so much to see…

Hope you get there someday.